In the first ever extra inning game at the new Segra Stadium, the Fayetteville Woodpeckers dropped one Friday evening to the Down East Wood Ducks 9-6 in front of 3,600+ enthusiastic fans.
The Woodpeckers are an affiliate of the Houston Astros, playing in the 10-team Carolina League, a minor league baseball developmental program classified as Class A Advanced.
Bunker the mascot.
Games take on a festive vibe with promotions like Fireworks Fridays, Kids Two Dollar Tuesdays, Thirsty Thursday and free tacos when the team scores six or more runs.
Charlotte Murray, a elementary school teacher for Cumberland County Schools, said “I love going to Woodpecker games because the spectators are so into the game. Even after a long week of teaching, you can go to a game and get re-energized on a Friday night. It’s like being in the midst of a fun party. It is a great place for kids.”
Young fans enjoying the game.
The fan experience is made better with a variety of seating options like box seats, modeled rocking chairs, a lawn area behind center field and comfortable patio seating. There is even a kids playground with batting cages, climbing equipment and bounce houses.
The hometown team went ahead early, holding a 5-2 lead into the 8th inning. The Wood Ducks scored four runs in the top of the 8th inning to take the lead, only to see the Woodpeckers tie the game up with a run of their own in the bottom of the 8th. After a scoreless 9th inning, the visitors plated four more runs and held on for the win.
Seth Beer
Top prospect, Seth Beer, went 2 for 4, with 3 RBI, raising his batting average to .320. Seth is a Clemson University Alumni who was picked in the first round of the 2018 Major League Baseball draft.
With his performance at the plate and in the field, Seth is likely to be moved up to the Double A Corpus Christi Hooks before too long.
~Written and photos by Sandhills Sentinel Sports Reporter/Photographer John Patota.
